Unmissable Stand Up Comedy Performances: Your Guide to the Best Gigs
- comedyinyoureye
- 4 days ago
- 13 min read
Right then, fancy a good laugh? The live comedy scene is absolutely buzzing at the moment, with loads of brilliant comedians hitting the road. Whether you're after some quick-fire jokes, sharp observations, or just a good old-fashioned belly laugh, there's something for everyone. We've put together a list of some of the stand up comedy performances you really shouldn't miss. Get your tickets sorted!
Key Takeaways
Peter Kay is back on tour, with dates supporting cancer charities.
Mo Gilligan's 'The Mo You Know' tour kicks off in January.
Josh Widdicombe, Chris Ramsey, and James Acaster are bringing their solo shows on the road.
Michael Spicer and Alasdair Beckett-King offer satirical and video-enhanced comedy.
Tom Davis's new solo set is called 'Spudgun'.
Peter Kay: Live Tour
Right then, let's talk about Peter Kay. He's a name that's practically synonymous with British comedy, isn't he? His tours are massive events, the kind that sell out stadiums faster than you can say 'Garlic Bread'. His ability to tap into everyday life and make us all laugh at ourselves is pretty special.
Kay's shows often feel like a big, warm hug from a mate who's got a knack for storytelling. He’s brilliant at recalling those shared experiences – the awkward family gatherings, the questionable fashion choices of the past, the sheer absurdity of growing up in the North of England. It’s this relatability that keeps people coming back, year after year.
His tours aren't just about the jokes, though. There's a real sense of occasion. You've got the anticipation, the roar of the crowd when he walks out, and the sheer scale of the production. It’s a proper night out, the kind you talk about for weeks afterwards.
He has a unique talent for observing the mundane and turning it into something hilarious, making us feel like we're all in on the joke together.
While some reviews have suggested a shift in his material over time, with a focus on nostalgia, the core of what makes a Peter Kay gig so popular remains. It’s that connection, that feeling of being understood, and, of course, the belly laughs. If you're looking for a comedy show that's guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, you can't really go wrong with a Peter Kay performance. He's a true legend of the stand-up circuit, and his tours are a testament to that.
Mo Gilligan: The Mo You Know
Mo Gilligan, a true South Londoner, really made his mark with his "The Mo You Know" tour. It’s a show that perfectly captures his journey, especially his experiences trying to make it big in Hollywood. He talks about fame, family, and all the funny bits about being a Brit trying to get by in America.
He’s got this knack for making you feel like you’re just having a chat with him down the pub, even when he’s talking about some pretty wild stuff.
Navigating the glitz and glamour of the US entertainment industry.
The everyday observations that somehow become hilarious.
His thoughts on family and staying grounded.
Gilligan's ability to connect with his audience is what makes his shows so popular. He doesn't just tell jokes; he tells stories that feel incredibly relatable, even if your life is a bit different from his.
If you're looking for tickets to catch him live, you might want to check out SeatGeek for Mo Gilligan tickets. He’s definitely one of those comedians you don’t want to miss seeing live.
Josh Widdicombe: Not My Cup Of Tea
Josh Widdicombe’s latest stand-up show, "Not My Cup Of Tea", marks his return to the live circuit after a six-year break, and it’s being hailed as his best work yet. If you’re a fan of his regular appearances on panel shows or his incredibly popular "Parenting Hell" podcast with Rob Beckett, you’ll recognise his signature style. He’s got this knack for observational humour that feels really relatable, often focusing on the everyday annoyances and absurdities that most of us just put up with. This tour really leans into that, with Widdicombe dissecting the little things that get under his skin, from minor inconveniences to broader societal quirks.
He’s known for his slightly anxious persona, which he uses to great effect, building up these scenarios that spiral into comedic chaos. It’s not about big, flashy jokes; it’s more about the build-up, the specific details, and his own reactions to them. He’s managed to hone this craft over the years, and "Not My Cup Of Tea" feels like a really polished performance, showcasing his deft comedic timing and sharp wit. It’s the kind of show that leaves you chuckling about things you hadn’t even considered funny before.
Widdicombe has a way of making the mundane hilarious, turning everyday gripes into laugh-out-loud moments. His self-deprecating humour and honest observations make him incredibly endearing to his audience.
Here’s a little taste of what you might expect:
Everyday Annoyances: Expect deep dives into things like queuing, public transport woes, and the baffling etiquette of modern life.
Personal Anecdotes: Widdicombe often weaves in stories from his own life, making the comedy feel very personal and genuine.
Cultural Observations: He’s not afraid to poke fun at trends, technology, and the general oddities of living in the UK today.
It’s a show that feels both familiar and fresh, and definitely worth catching if you appreciate comedy that’s smart, funny, and down-to-earth. You can catch details about his tour dates and ticket information online.
Romesh Ranganathan: The Hustle
Romesh Ranganathan's 'The Hustle' is a show that really digs into the everyday grind, but with his signature cynical twist. He's got this way of looking at the world that's both relatable and hilariously bleak, which, let's be honest, is pretty much how a lot of us feel sometimes.
He talks about everything from the pressures of modern life to the sheer absurdity of trying to keep up with it all. It’s not just observational humour; he weaves in personal anecdotes that feel genuinely honest, even when they’re about the most mundane things. You know, like trying to get a decent parking spot or dealing with customer service. His ability to find the funny in the frustrating is what makes this show a standout.
Here's a bit of what you can expect:
The relentless pursuit of success and what it actually means.
Navigating family life and the chaos that comes with it.
The awkwardness of social interactions in a digital age.
His thoughts on the general state of things, delivered with a healthy dose of pessimism.
Ranganathan has a knack for making you laugh at things you probably complain about on a regular basis. It’s like he’s reading your mind, but with better jokes.
He's been nominated for awards before, like at the Edinburgh Comedy Awards, so you know he's got serious comic chops. If you're looking for a show that's sharp, witty, and makes you think about your own 'hustle', this is definitely one to catch. His live performance is highly recommended for its effective delivery of misanthropic observations. Check out his live performance.
James Acaster: Solo Tour
James Acaster is a name that pops up a lot in UK comedy circles, and for good reason. While he’s known for his work with the Off Menu podcast and his appearances on shows like Taskmaster, his solo stand-up tours are where he really gets to stretch his comedic legs. His unique style, blending surreal observations with a rapid-fire delivery, makes for a truly memorable experience.
Acaster's shows often feel like a journey into his wonderfully peculiar mind. He has a knack for taking the mundane and twisting it into something hilariously absurd. You might find yourself laughing at a story about a specific type of biscuit or a detailed analysis of a minor inconvenience, all delivered with his signature earnestness and a touch of bewildered charm. It’s this ability to find the funny in the everyday, amplified through his distinctive comedic lens, that keeps audiences coming back for more.
When James Acaster announces a solo tour, it's usually a big deal. Tickets tend to disappear pretty quickly, so if you're a fan, it's worth keeping an eye out for any new dates. His previous 'Work In Progress' tours have been a great way for fans to catch new material before it's fully polished, and they often sell out fast. Getting tickets can be a challenge, but the payoff is definitely worth the effort.
What you can expect from an Acaster show:
Intricate storytelling that weaves seemingly unrelated topics together.
A high-energy performance that rarely lets up.
Surreal tangents that somehow always circle back to the main point.
A genuine connection with the audience, despite the often bizarre subject matter.
Acaster's comedy isn't just about telling jokes; it's about building a world, a slightly off-kilter reality that you're invited to explore for an hour or two. He’s a master of the unexpected, and you’ll likely leave the venue with a new appreciation for the sillier aspects of life.
His tours are a testament to his growth as a comedian, showcasing his confidence and his ever-expanding creative range. If you get the chance to see him live, don't hesitate. It’s a chance to witness a truly original comedic voice at the top of his game.
Chris Ramsey: Here Man
Chris Ramsey's 'Here Man!' tour is a proper laugh-out-loud affair, and honestly, it’s a bit of a surprise it even happened. Apparently, his wife Rosie was the driving force behind him getting back on the road solo, which is pretty funny when you think about it. He's known for his energetic style and relatable stories, often drawing from his own life and family.
This show is a great example of how he connects with the audience. He’s not afraid to be a bit daft, and that’s what makes him so popular. You’ll find yourself nodding along to his observations about everyday life, whether it's about parenting, relationships, or just the general chaos of being alive.
Here's what you can generally expect from a Chris Ramsey gig:
Relatable Anecdotes: Stories that feel like they could be happening to you.
High Energy: He's always moving and engaging with the crowd.
Audience Interaction: Expect to be brought into the show.
Self-Deprecating Humour: He's happy to poke fun at himself.
His ability to make the mundane hilarious is what makes him a must-see comedian. It’s the kind of show where you’ll be chuckling all the way home, and probably still giggling about bits the next day. If you're looking for a night of pure, unadulterated fun, then Chris Ramsey's 'Here Man!' tour is definitely one to catch. It’s a testament to his enduring appeal that he can still pack out venues with his unique brand of comedy, proving that sometimes, the simplest observations about life are the funniest. You can catch him on his current tour dates if you're lucky enough to grab a ticket.
Tom Davis: Spudgun
Tom Davis, a familiar face from shows like The Curse and King Gary, brings his solo stand-up show, Spudgun, to the stage. Known for his energetic performances and relatable observations, Davis has a knack for finding the funny in everyday life. His material often touches on family, growing up, and the general chaos of being an adult, all delivered with a warmth that makes you feel like you're having a laugh with a mate.
Spudgun is a chance to see Davis in his element, riffing on whatever catches his eye and connecting with the audience on a personal level. He's got this brilliant way of building up a story, often with unexpected twists, that keeps you hooked from start to finish. He's particularly good at capturing those slightly awkward, universally experienced moments that we all try to forget but secretly find hilarious.
If you're looking for a night of big laughs and good vibes, Tom Davis's Spudgun is definitely one to catch. He's got a string of dates coming up, and you can often find tickets for his shows, though they do tend to sell out quickly. Keep an eye out for new performances being added regularly, as he's always adding more dates to his tours.
Davis has a talent for observational humour that feels both fresh and familiar, making his shows a hit with a wide range of audiences. His stage presence is infectious, drawing everyone into his world of comedic storytelling.
Here's what you might expect from a Tom Davis show:
Relatable Anecdotes: Stories about family life, childhood memories, and the absurdities of modern living.
High Energy Performance: Davis is known for his dynamic stage presence and enthusiastic delivery.
Audience Interaction: He's not afraid to engage with the crowd, often leading to spontaneous and funny moments.
Sharp Wit: Underlying the silliness is a keen observation of human behaviour.
Catching a live performance is the best way to experience Tom Davis's comedy. You can often find tickets for his upcoming gigs, with some performances having limited availability, so it's worth checking for tickets for his performance if you're keen.
He's got a knack for making even the most mundane topics hilarious, and Spudgun is no exception. It’s a show that leaves you feeling good, with plenty of jokes to take away and share. You can usually find details on his upcoming events online.
Michael Spicer: Hope All’s Well
Michael Spicer, the chap behind those brilliant lockdown videos like 'The Room Next Door', has brought his sharp, satirical humour to the stage with 'Hope All's Well'. It’s not just a standard stand-up set; Spicer mixes things up with sketches, short films, and personal stories, all delivered with his signature dry wit. He’s got a knack for dissecting the absurdities of modern life, especially when it comes to politics and social commentary.
The show itself runs for a decent length, about an hour and 35 minutes, and includes a break. It’s worth noting that it’s aimed at a more mature audience, so no one under 14 is allowed in, and they’re pretty strict about it. You can catch his tour dates, including a run at the Leicester Square Theatre in London, which wraps up on November 21st, 2026. Ticket information is available.
Here’s a bit of what you can expect:
Satirical Skits: Expect sharp observations on current events and the general state of things.
Short Films: Visual gags and narrative pieces that add another layer to the performance.
Personal Anecdotes: Moments where Spicer shares his own experiences, often with a hilarious twist.
It’s a show that feels very current, reflecting the oddities we’ve all been experiencing. If you enjoyed his online work, you’ll definitely get a kick out of seeing it brought to life on stage. The whole experience at the Leicester Square Theatre is a solid night out for anyone who appreciates clever comedy.
Alasdair Beckett-King: King Of Crumbs
Alasdair Beckett-King's "King of Crumbs" is a show that really sticks with you, much like, well, crumbs. He's a comedian who's built a bit of a reputation for his clever writing and sharp delivery, often weaving in animated bits and surprising sound effects. It’s not just your standard stand-up; there’s a real craft to how he puts his sets together, making it feel fresh and engaging.
Beckett-King has a knack for observational humour, but he often takes it to slightly absurd places. You might find yourself laughing at something completely unexpected, a testament to his unique perspective. He’s been described as the "crumbliest comedian in the game", which, if you ask me, is a pretty brilliant way to put it. It suggests a certain playful messiness, but with an underlying structure that holds it all together.
His show often features a mix of styles:
One-liners: Expect plenty of quick, punchy jokes that land with precision.
Storytelling: He’s adept at building narratives that draw you in and lead to satisfying punchlines.
Visual Gags: Sometimes these are animated, sometimes they’re just clever use of props or his own delivery.
The way Beckett-King plays with audience expectations is a real highlight. He can set you up for one kind of joke and then deliver something entirely different, but equally funny. It’s this unpredictability that makes his performances so enjoyable.
He's a comedian who's clearly put a lot of thought into his material, and it shows. If you're looking for a show that's intelligent, funny, and a bit different, then Alasdair Beckett-King's "King of Crumbs" is definitely one to catch. He's a master of his craft, and this show is a great example of his comedic techniques.
Stevie Martin: Clout
Stevie Martin's show, 'Clout', is a whirlwind of offbeat humour that really sticks with you. She's got this knack for taking everyday things and twisting them into something hilariously absurd. You might recognise her from bits and bobs on TV, but honestly, it's on stage where she truly shines. Her jokes come at you thick and fast, covering everything from moths and lamps to horses and Disney films, all woven together with her unique brand of silliness.
She's particularly good at blending these recurring themes with completely unexpected tangents. It’s a style that keeps you on your toes, never quite sure what’s coming next, but always ready to laugh.
Her performances are often described as:
Absurdist and self-mocking
Packed with visual and verbal gags
A blend of recurring themes and new material
If you're looking for a comedy show that's a bit different, something that feels fresh and genuinely funny, then Stevie Martin's 'Clout' is definitely one to catch. It’s a concise, hour-long set, so you get a solid dose of laughs without any unnecessary padding. It’s a testament to her skill that she can pack so much into a short space of time, making it a really satisfying watch. You can catch her performing at venues like the Lighthouse in Poole, which is a great spot for intimate comedy shows Stevie Martin's show.
Martin has a way of making the mundane feel extraordinary, and the extraordinary feel completely normal. It’s this balance that makes her comedy so engaging and memorable. She doesn't shy away from the weird, and that's precisely why audiences love her.
Stevie Martin is a comedian who really knows how to grab your attention. Her act, "Clout," is all about making you think and laugh. She's got a way of talking about things that makes you see them in a new light. Want to see more amazing comedy? Check out our website for tickets and showtimes!
So, What Are You Waiting For?
Right then, that's our quick look at some of the comedy gigs that are definitely worth your time. Whether you're after a big arena show or something a bit more low-key, there's loads out there to make you chuckle. It's easy to get stuck in a rut, but honestly, getting out to see some live comedy is a brilliant way to switch off and have a good laugh. So, have a think about who tickles your fancy from our list, grab some tickets, and get ready for a night of proper belly laughs. You won't regret it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find out if my favourite comedian is touring?
Loads of comedians announce their tours on social media or their official websites. You can also check out ticket selling sites regularly, as they list upcoming gigs.
What's the best way to get cheap tickets?
Sometimes, booking tickets really early can get you a better price. Also, keep an eye out for deals or special offers that might pop up closer to the date.
Can I get tickets on the door?
It's a bit of a gamble! Some smaller gigs might have tickets left, but for the big names, they usually sell out way in advance. Best to book ahead to be safe.
What if the show is cancelled?
If a show is cancelled, the ticket seller will usually let you know. You'll normally get a refund or be able to swap your ticket for another date.
Are there age restrictions for comedy shows?
It really depends on the show and the venue. Some shows are definitely for adults only, while others might be okay for younger teens. Always check the venue's rules before you buy.
What should I do if I can't make it to the gig anymore?
You might be able to sell your ticket on a fan-to-fan resale site, or see if the venue has a policy for exchanges. It's worth checking the terms and conditions when you bought the ticket.